While speeding is often highlighted as a major cause of road accidents, driving too slowly can be just as dangerous, experts warn. New research suggests that sluggish drivers may inadvertently cause fatal collisions by disrupting the natural flow of traffic.
Why Slow Driving Poses a Risk
Motorists who drive significantly below the speed limit can create hazardous situations, especially on high-speed roads. When vehicles suddenly slow down, it forces others to brake abruptly or swerve, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions or multi-car pileups.
Key Dangers of Driving Too Slowly:
- Traffic congestion: Slow-moving vehicles cause bottlenecks, leading to frustrated drivers making risky overtakes.
- Speed differentials: Large gaps between the fastest and slowest vehicles create unpredictable conditions.
- Driver frustration: Tailgating and aggressive maneuvers often result from impatience with slow drivers.
What the Experts Say
Road safety organisations emphasise that while speeding remains a serious concern, drivers should aim to maintain a steady, appropriate speed for the road conditions. The key is to match the flow of traffic while staying within legal limits.
Police forces across the UK have reported cases where excessively slow driving contributed to serious accidents. In some instances, drivers travelling well below the limit on motorways have caused chain-reaction crashes.
Finding the Right Balance
Authorities recommend:
- Keeping pace with traffic flow when safe to do so
- Using the left lane unless overtaking
- Pulling over if your vehicle can't maintain a reasonable speed
- Being especially cautious when joining fast-moving roads
Remember, road safety isn't just about not speeding - it's about maintaining appropriate and predictable speeds that keep traffic flowing smoothly.
